As time goes on, your joints start to wear down. That’s why so many people develop arthritis. Your shoulders are a common area for this to occur. In some cases, the joint may be so severely damaged that you require shoulder replacement due to shoulder pain or a limited range of motion. Nowadays, you may receive a reverse shoulder replacement as opposed to a standard shoulder replacement.
A reverse shoulder replacement consists of a surgeon removing the damaged portion of your shoulder joint through an incision at the back of the shoulder instead of the front. Then, artificial components are installed in the removed shoulder tissue’s place to relieve pain and increase mobility.
Procedure
During a reverse shoulder replacement, your surgeon will begin by removing the upper part of your arm bone, which is your humerus. Specifically, your surgeon will remove the rounded head of it. Next, they will replace that portion with a plastic socket that’s attached to the end of your humerus using screws. Your surgeon will remove some of the socket of your shoulder blade and replace it with a metal ball.
This procedure differs from a traditional shoulder joint replacement because the metal ball is attached to the upper part of the humerus. With this particular surgery, your new joint more closely resembles your true anatomy.
Who Qualifies
This surgery may help if you had a total shoulder replacement in the past that didn’t fix your problem.
It’s also a procedure that’s better suited for people who have an injury to the rotator cuff, or the tendons are gone. People with arthritis are also good candidates – especially if their shoulder joint has deteriorated significantly.
What to Expect
Once you schedule your surgery date, your surgeon will give you instructions on how to prepare. For instance, you may need to stop taking certain medications a few days or weeks before your surgery.
On the day of your surgery, you’ll more than likely receive a general anesthetic and nerve block. The surgery will take between two to three hours to complete if this is your first shoulder replacement surgery. For revisions, the procedure usually takes between three to five hours.
You’ll stay in the hospital for two to three days after your surgery. On the first day, you may be able to move your elbow, wrist, and fingers. You will have limited mobility in your arm for the first few days or weeks.
Risks
Risks are similar to those of a standard total shoulder replacement surgery. For example, you could develop an infection. Your surgeon will take the necessary steps to reduce this risk as much as possible.
Recovery
As mentioned above, you may have limited mobility in your arms and hands. Pain is common immediately following the procedure, but you’ll receive pain medication to combat it as necessary.
While you’re in the hospital recovering, you’ll be monitored to see how much range of motion you have in your shoulder. Your doctor might also order an X-ray to ensure the procedure went correctly.
Once you return home and take time to rest your new shoulder joint, you’ll receive a start day for physical therapy, which will last several weeks. During this time, you’ll need to perform certain exercises to adjust to your new shoulder and regain strength and function.
Why Choose Our Naples, FL Joint Replacement Institute for Your Surgery
The Joint Replacement Institute performs all types of joint replacement procedures, including reverse shoulder replacements. Our team is highly trained, knowledgeable, and willing to answer any questions you may have. We use precision and compassion to provide you with the results you deserve.
Call The Joint Replacement Institute, serving Naples and the nearby Florida region, today to see if reverse shoulder replacement is an option for your shoulder pain. Call (239) 261-2663 or use our online appointment setting tool to schedule your visit.
